For Algebra and the higher mathematics books, the following order is recommended:

Geometry / Trigonometry

Elementary Algebra

Higher Algebra

Doing them in this order eliminates the traditional gap that occurs between Algebra I and Algebra II, where Geometry is often inserted into the standard math curriculum. I know that when I took these math subjects back in high school, I thoroughly enjoyed all of them, BUT, I did not appreciate that year of geometry jammed in the middle. It threw off the momentum and lengthened the learning curve just a bit!

I used Strayer-Upton for elementary math and now have found this. 🙂 I am thinking I want to use the higher math ie algebra. I see that you suggest doing Geometry first. I see in the books it lists also Analytic Geometry as well as Ray’s Treatise on Geometry and Trig. I am trying to figure out what order to teach the Algebra/Geometry series of books. From my research I am hearing that more mental maturity is needed to do Geometry and Trig. Can I do both Algebra’s first and then the Geometry? Also what is the difference between the 2 Geometry books I mentioned. On other sites they also suggest supplementing the Geometry so that you can do actual problems. What are your thoughts on that? Thanks so much!

I’m curious, in the preface to the Elementary Algebra text, it’s indicated that it would be best it that book immediately followed arithmetic. What is your reason for suggesting a different order? (I’m aware that question could sound combative, but I don’t mean it to be, I really just would like to know what you used as your basis for suggesting first trig/geometry and then algebra if the author thinks otherwise. Can’t think of a different wording, though! 😀 )

This is the order recommended by Dr. Gary North, curriculum director for the Ron Paul Curriculum. I have heard that some do both of the Algebras back-to-back and then tackle Geometry & Trig after. Honestly, there’s no hard and fast rule.

No, the only answer keys that I’ve seen are the ones linked to here. And then they are selected answers only, for the more difficult problems. Check with Mott Media. They republished the entire Ray’s series, with some answer keys.

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